Asteroids

Asteroids are small, rocky bodies that orbit the Sun, primarily found in the asteroid belt between the orbits of Mars and Jupiter. They are remnants from the early solar system that never coalesced into planets. Asteroids vary in size, shape, and composition, and they can range from a few meters to hundreds of kilometers in diameter. They are classified into different groups based on their composition, such as C-type (carbonaceous), S-type (silicaceous), and M-type (metallic). Some asteroids have irregular shapes and craters, reflecting their history of collisions and impacts. While most asteroids are found in the asteroid belt, some have orbits that bring them closer to Earth, categorized as near-Earth objects (NEOs). Studying asteroids provides insight into the origins of the solar system and the processes that shaped planetary bodies. Additionally, their potential for mining resources, as well as their role in planetary defense against potential impacts, has garnered interest in both scientific research and commercial exploration.